FAQ
Can a foreigner fully own property in Dubai?
Yes — freehold ownership in the designated areas, directly in your name, with a title deed from the Dubai Land Department.
Do I need to be in Dubai to complete the purchase?
No. Booking, signing and payment can be done remotely, and you can appoint someone with a notarised power of attorney to finish the formalities.
What are the Land Department fees?
4% of the purchase price, paid once at registration, plus small administrative fees. Some developers absorb it in launch offers.
Do I pay you a commission?
No. When buying off-plan from the developer, the price is the developer's price and the marketing fee is paid by the developer.
How do I know a developer is trustworthy?
Check that the project and its escrow account are registered with the Land Department, and ask about the delivery record on previous projects and the current completion percentage.
What is the escrow account?
A separate bank account in the project's name where buyers' payments are deposited; the developer can only withdraw according to certified construction progress.
What if handover is delayed?
The SPA sets a grace period and penalties. Delays do happen in the market, so choose a developer with a good record and read that clause carefully.
Can I resell the unit before handover?
Usually yes, after paying a certain percentage (varies by developer) and with a transfer fee. Ask about the conditions before signing.
What is the difference between a title deed and Oqood?
Oqood is the registration of the preliminary sale contract for an off-plan unit; the Title Deed is issued after handover.
Are there property taxes?
There is currently no income tax on rent and no capital-gains tax for individuals in the UAE. There is a municipality fee on rent, usually paid by the tenant, and annual service charges paid by the owner.
What are service charges?
Annual fees for maintaining the building and amenities, calculated per square foot and varying widely by area and facilities. Ask for the approved figure for the project.
Can a non-resident get a mortgage?
Possible with some banks under tighter conditions and a higher down payment, usually for ready units or advanced construction stages.
What is the minimum for the Golden Visa through property?
AED 2 million, measured by the Land Department's valuation of property in your name. Under the 2026 update, off-plan and financed property can count. Details on the Golden Visa page.
Is a guaranteed return real?
Some developers offer a return guarantee for a set period, written in the contract. Read its terms, duration and who pays it; never rely on verbal promises.
How long does construction usually take?
Two to four years depending on the project size; the expected handover date is stated in the contract.
Can I pay with cryptocurrency?
Some developers accept it through licensed payment intermediaries. What matters is that the money reaches the registered escrow account.
What is the usual down payment?
Typically 5% to 20% of the price depending on the developer and plan, plus the DLD fee.
Can I visit the project before buying?
Yes. We arrange a viewing at the developer's sales centre or show unit if you are in Dubai, or a virtual tour if you are abroad.
What exactly is Homizai's role?
A US-based real-estate marketing company working with licensed developers in Dubai. We help you understand and compare, and connect you with the developer; the contract and payment are with the developer directly.
Is Taj a human?
Taj is our AI assistant on WhatsApp and works with a human team. You can ask to speak with a human advisor at any time.
Do you work with all Dubai developers?
We work with a selected group of licensed developers and expand it gradually. If you have a specific project in mind, ask us about it.
What happens after the free online meeting?
You leave with a clear plan: the options that fit your goal, what you will pay, and the next step. No obligation and no pushy follow-ups; you set the pace.
Do I need a lawyer?
Not mandatory when buying off-plan from the developer, but an independent legal review of the SPA is wise, especially for larger amounts.
Can the property be registered in more than one name?
Yes, joint ownership with set shares on the title deed. For visa purposes each co-owner has minimum thresholds.
How do I protect myself from fraud?
Only transfer to the escrow account or the official developer account named in the booking documents, verify the project on the Land Department website, and never sign what you do not understand.
Your question is not here?Send it to Taj on WhatsApp any time, or book a free online meeting.